DRC–Schengen visas: automated queue to curb intermediaries’ hoarding of appointments

From October 26, the European Visa Centre in Kinshasa will introduce an automated queue for appointment requests, with applicants emailed when an appointment can be offered. The reform, decided by Belgium’s Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, aims to stop intermediaries using automated systems to seize appointment slots. In November 2025, Joris Salden said about 1,000 weekly appointments could disappear in less than 30 seconds, leading some applicants to pay agencies even though appointments are free. The change does not alter visa requirements or how applications are assessed and guarantees no processing timeframe; requests for payment to secure an appointment can be reported to Belgian diplomatic missions in the DRC.